Ansel Adams

mounted, signed in pencil on the mount, a Carmel studio stamp, title and date in ink, and collection stamps of Anne Adams Helms and Virginia Adams on the reverse, 1929, probably printed in the late 1970s (400 Photographs, p. 59)

This print is in generally excellent condition. In raking light, some small deposits of original retouching are visible. A thin band of the mount is lightly yellowed at the print's periphery. A modern mat is attached to the mount with linen tape along its upper edge. On the reverse of the mount are two collection stamps that read: 'Virginia Adams Collection' and 'Photograph by Ansel Adams / Anne Adams Helms Collection.' Although Karen Haas's and Rebecca Senf's book, 'Ansel Adams in the Lane Collection,' publishes the most comprehensive list to date of the studio stamps and labels Adams used throughout his career, the Carmel studio stamp on the reverse of the present mount is not reproduced. The stamp, similar to BMFA 11, but with the zip code '93923,' is dated with the negative date in an unidentified hand in ink; corrective paste is visible, over which the date '1929' has been written. While the stamp is not dated with the printing date, we have most commonly seen this stamp with other prints dated 1978.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.